Time for a Refresh
Every choice we make for our bodies has a lifespan. Whether your life looks a lot different than it did when you first had surgery, or your implants are simply hitting the ten-year mark and in need of attention, replacing them is a chance to make sure your look still fits who you are today.
At Aesthetic Surgery of Charlotte, Dr. Adam Augenstein looks at breast implant revision surgery like a restoration project. He doesn’t just swap out one part for another. He checks how the breast pocket is holding up, the health of your natural breast tissue, and how everything is built on the inside to make sure your results stay safe and look great for years to come.
Modern Materials, Better Feel
Breast implant replacement is a surgical procedure where a plastic surgeon removes old saline or silicone implants and replaces them with new ones. This cosmetic surgery fixes issues like an implant rupture, scar tissue buildup (capsular contracture), or changes in your body to give you a natural look again.
| Cost | Price depends on your specific needs and the type of implants you choose. |
| Downtime | About 5–7 days of rest; 6 weeks before doing heavy exercise. |
| Pain Level | Usually a 3/10 (We give you a plan to stay comfortable). |
| Duration | The surgery takes about 1.5 to 3 hours. |
Listen to Your Body
Most patients don't wake up one day with a major problem. Instead, you just start to notice small things. Maybe an older silicone shell has a silent rupture that changed how the breast feels, or maybe the size that felt right in your twenties just doesn't match your life anymore.
Common signs that it’s time to replace your implants include:
Better Materials for the Long-Term
While some women choose to take their implants out for good, many women decide to get new implants to keep the look they love while using better, newer technology.
Finding Your Perfect Fit
Most women who currently have implants and are in good general health are great candidates for this procedure. You might be a fit if you are dealing with a ruptured implant, uncomfortable scar tissue, or just want to change your size to better match your current body. This treatment is perfect for solving issues like bottoming out, where the implant has slipped too low, or rippling, where you can see folds through the skin.
However, there are a few things that might mean surgery isn't right for you just yet. If you are currently pregnant or nursing, we usually recommend waiting at least six months after you've finished to allow your natural tissue to settle. Major health issues like uncontrolled diabetes or active infections are also disqualifications. During your visit, we’ll look at your medical history to make sure your body is ready to heal properly.
Your Private Assessment
Your consultation is an honest, one-on-one talk where we listen to what you like and dislike about your current look. Dr. Augenstein will perform a physical exam to check your skin elasticity and the state of your current implants. We’ll discuss different implant types and sizes. You can expect a clear, no-pressure environment where safety comes first.
To get ready for your surgery, we ask that you stop smoking and avoid certain blood-thinning medications or herbal supplements for at least two weeks before your date. We’ll also give you a specific recovery kit list, including things like a comfortable front-closing bra and loose clothing. Making sure your home is set up for a few days of rest is the best way to ensure a smooth, easy start to your healing.
The Augenstein Technique
When I perform a breast implant replacement, my main goal is to make sure everything is healthy on the inside. It isn’t enough to just slide a new device into an old spot. Over time, the inside of the breast changes, and we have to respect that.
To get exceptional results, I focus on:
Your Timeline for Healing
Recovering from a replacement is usually easier than the first time you had surgery. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and most people have very little downtime. Most patients feel comfortable enough to get back to their normal routine within a week.
You will see a change in your shape right away, but your final results will show up once the swelling goes down. You’ll get a more youthful appearance that fits your goals, with natural results that look like they belong on your body.
Invest in Your Aesthetic Health
We believe in being honest about prices. We don't give one-size-fits-all numbers because every surgery is different. The price depends on how much work we need to do on your internal tissue, how long the surgery takes, and which new implants you pick. During your consultation, we will give you a personalized care plan and a clear quote. We also offer monthly payment plans through CareCredit and PatientFi.
Experience Matters Here
Choosing the right plastic surgeon is the most important part of a revision. Dr. Augenstein is a dual board-certified Charlotte plastic surgeon who has performed over 6,500 surgeries. While we offer everything from a tummy tuck to facelifts, our breast surgery team is known for being among the best. We focus on your safety and your results above everything else.
Ready for a Refresh?
If you are ready to refresh your look or you’re worried that your current implants might be getting too old, the first step is to come in and talk to us. Dr. Augenstein and his team will make sure you feel comfortable and that your goals come first.
Contact us for a consultation today at (704) 837-1150. If you have further questions, our team is ready to help you get the look you want.
If you have a lot of sagging skin or your nipples point downward, just getting new implants might not give you the look you want. Adding a lift helps tighten the skin and moves the nipple back to a higher position for a more youthful appearance.
Since silicone gel is thick, a leak often doesn't cause the breast to go flat. You might notice your breasts feel harder, look different, or experience slight tingling. We suggest getting an ultrasound or MRI every few years to check the shell.
Yes. Many women choose to go smaller as they get older or larger to fill out loose skin. Dr. Augenstein will adjust the breast pocket during surgery to make sure your new size fits your frame perfectly.
Actually, most patients find it easier. Since the breast pocket was already created during your first surgery, there is usually less stretching and soreness. Most people get back to their normal daily life within 5 to 7 days.
Absolutely. Many women switch from saline to silicone gummy bear implants during their replacement. Silicone gel usually feels much softer and moves more like natural breast tissue than saline does.
If your scar tissue (the capsule) is soft and thin, we often leave it. However, if it has become hard or tight (capsular contracture), Dr. Augenstein will remove it. This ensures your new implants feel soft and look natural.
For the highest quality care and results, book your consultation with Dr. Augenstein at Aesthetic Surgery of Charlotte. We can’t wait to help you realize your best life.